Exhaust Systems

There are many parts to an exhaust system, some parts attach elements to the car, others are components that act as a heat shield or filtering noxious gases, but generally the main components are:

EXHAUST MANIFOLD

Attached to the engine this funnels the exhaust gases through to the rest of the exhaust system, if this is poorly fitted or faulty gases will escape reducing back pressure and reducing engine performance.

OXYGEN SENSOR

This is a small probe that measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust system, this assists in improving fuel efficiency. Most modern cars are fitted with two sensors – before and after the catalytic converter, measuring oxygen levels and pollutants.

CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

This filters out pollutants and toxic chemicals from the exhaust system. This is one of the most vital parts of the exhaust system.

MUFFLER

This does what it says on the tin, fitted towards the end of the exhaust system, this section muffles engine noise via pipes and baffles that creates an echo chamber to cancel out the sound waves.

You should consider replacing your car’s exhaust when you notice any of the following signs:

• Exhaust fumes: A strong smell of rotten eggs or sulfur inside the car could indicate a leak in the exhaust system. Breathing in exhaust fumes can be dangerous and even fatal.
• Loud noises: Increased engine noise, especially when accelerating, could be a sign of an exhaust leak. You might also hear intermittent popping or hissing noises. This could be caused by a loose silencer / pipes or the presence of holes.
• Poor Performance: If your vehicle seems to lack power and is sluggish when accelerating, you may need to replace a part of the exhaust system. It could be a malfunctioning catalytic converter or a clogged pipe.
• Sagging or Hanging: The exhaust system may sag or hang lower than normal.
• Metallic Vibrations: If your exhaust has come loose, you might hear a metallic rattling from inside your vehicle. You might also feel a mild vibration through your seat, steering wheel, or accelerator pedal. Get it checked – it could be something has come loose or adrift in the exhaust system.
• Rust or Corrosion: Given that most of the exhaust system is exposed to the elements it’s not surprising that rust / corrosion will develop. Look out for any visible rust or corrosion on the exhaust pipes. Maybe time to replace sections?
• Poor Fuel Efficiency: If your vehicle seems to be using a lot more fuel, a faulty exhaust system could be the culprit. When an engine struggles to release exhaust gases, it has to work harder – resulting in increased fuel consumption.
• Smoke from the Exhaust: Not good, it could be sign that something is wrong with your vehicle. Depending on its colour there may be an issue with the catalytic converter or possibly the engine. Either way it will need checking.

It is important to pay attention to exhaust and emission levels, particularly when it come to your annual MOT. You car will fail if there is a major leak or unsafe CO2 emissions. Small leaks or corrosion are generally not an issue but to be sure and safe bring you vehicle to Corner Garage for a check up. It may be that a repair is all that’s needed rather than a complete system.

Corner Garage prides itself on bringing you excellent automotive care at affordable prices. Why pay astronomical dealership fees if you don’t have to?